It's already been reported recently that there is an association between brain injuries and stroke risk. There's also apparently a correlation between traumatic brain injuries and the development of dementia later in life. Now, a new study suggests those who have sustained brain injuries are somewhat more likely to develop schizophrenia than people who have not suffered such injuries.

The study analyzed data from nine previous studies that included participants who had suffered a traumatic brain injury, as well as people who had not. The research reportedly revealed that those who had suffered an injury were 1.6 times more likely to develop schizophrenia than the general population.

According to MSNBC, the study was the first to use past research of brain injuries in a systematic fashion to determine the risk of schizophrenia. Previous studies apparently had only mixed results.

People who had suffered a traumatic brain injury and had a family history of schizophrenia were 2.8 times more likely to develop the condition. Generally, schizophrenia affects about 7 of every 1,000 adults in the world.

Interestingly, the risk of developing the condition was not heightened for more severe brain injuries. It's possible that where trauma occurs in the brain may affect the risk, but location was not part of this study. It's possible further studies could determine how important that factor is.

Some researchers believe people have genes that predispose them to schizophrenia. Once they get some sort of "trigger" like a brain injury, the symptoms can develop. However, it's also possible that people in the early stages of the condition may be at higher risk of experiencing a brain injury. More research will be necessary to truly study the apparent link.

Source: MSNBC, "Head trauma may boost schizophrenia risk," Rachel Rettner, Aug. 19, 2011